"Do I still need privacy extensions?"

"Extensions can add extra protections, but start with built-in features to avoid redundancy."

Harden Firefox for Privacy in 10 Minutes

Last updated 2025-01-01 · By Milly

Step-by-step Firefox privacy setup with screenshots and explanations.

Introduction

Mozilla Firefox can be configured in minutes to limit tracking, reduce telemetry, and keep browsing data private. This guide walks you through the most impactful changes.

Key Takeaways

Enable Firefox’s strict tracking protection mode.
Reduce cross-site tracking by disabling third-party cookies.
Confirm that telemetry, studies, and personalized ads are turned off.

Steps

Set Tracking Protection to Strict — Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Enhanced Tracking Protection and select Strict. This blocks fingerprinting scripts, trackers, and known cryptominers.
Disable Telemetry and Studies — In the same panel, uncheck Allow Firefox to send technical and interaction data to Mozilla and Allow Firefox to install and run studies.
Harden Cookies and History — Under Cookies and Site Data, choose Total Cookie Protection and set Firefox will: Use custom settings for history to disable cross-site tracking.
Verify with about:protections — Visit about:protections to confirm trackers are being blocked on sites you visit.

Common Pitfalls

Website Breakage → Temporarily switch Enhanced Tracking Protection to Standard for the affected site, then report the issue.
Telemetry Reset after Update → Re-check privacy toggles after major version upgrades.

FAQ

Will these settings slow down my browsing?

Most sites will load faster because trackers are blocked. A few pages may require exceptions.

Do I still need extensions?

Privacy extensions can add extra protections, but start with these built-in settings to avoid redundancy.